Daniel Ioniță about request to withdraw Romanian nationality from Ion Chicu: You cannot punish someone for an opinion

09.03.2021 06:40
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The Ambassador of Romania to Moldova Daniel Ioniță is skeptical about the request to withdraw the Romanian nationality from the former Prime Minister of Moldova Ion Chicu after this leveled criticism at the neighboring state. According to the diplomat, the Romanian nationality cannot be withdrawn after someone states their personal opinions. However, Daniel Ioniță noted it is responsible authority that will decide whether to strip Ion Chicu of Romanian nationality or nor, IPN reports.

Currently, the National Citizenship Authority of Romania is examining the application filed by ex-MP Constantin Condreanu, who requested to take away the Romanian nationality from the former Prime Minister Ion Chicu. Codreanu’s application is based on the harsh statements made by Chicu in relation to a Romanian MEP. The ambassador to Moldova said no one can be punished for personal opinions.

“The situation is analyzed by the justice in Romania. Those who made such requests should provide conclusive evidence. One cannot be punished for opinion delinquency or we will have to deprive of rights absolutely all the Romanian citizens who at a certain moment criticized Romania,” the diplomat stated in the talk show “Black Box” on TV8 channel.

However, Daniel Ioniță said a decision will be taken by the National Citizenship Authority of Romania after examining the evidence presented by Constantin Codreanu against Chicu.

“We are a democratic state that respects the opinion right. If Romania has gained something during 30 years, it has gained a lot in terms of liberty. The revolution of 1989 started with everyone having this word on their lips. However, we must see what the responsible authority decides,” stated the ambassador.

Last May, Romanian MEP Siegfried Mureșan criticized the Government led by Ion Chicu, saying the executive wasn’t making progress in doing reforms. In reply, Chicu named Mureșan a “failed man” and “Romanian nipper”. Later, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Romania described Chicu’s statements as improper and disrespectful.